Sir Elton John's fans support postponement of Auckland shows to 2021 after illness

Sir Elton John's fans have sent warm wishes to the legendary singer after he was forced to postpone his two remaining Auckland concerts due to ill-health.

The artist was diagnosed with walking pneumonia on Sunday ahead of his Mt Smart show that evening, and while he performed 16 songs of his 25-song set, he had to stop midway through after losing his voice. 

His Tuesday show was then postponed to Wednesday. But on Tuesday night, the singer confirmed "upon further consultation from doctors and specialists", he would have to reschedule his two remaining concerts to January 2021.

"I always want to be able to give 100 percent and I'm afraid that, right now, I'm not able to do that. I am grateful for the love and loyalty I have been shown by all of you and I can't wait to return in January next year to perform my final New Zealand shows."

Despite the postponement, Sir Elton's fans aren't upset with him - quite the opposite. 

"Thank goodness for that, he needs a lot of rest and a lot of support from us Kiwis," wrote one person on Facebook in response to the news.

"Get well soon and thank you for your awesome effort for us on Sunday night," said another.

"Don’t worry about us! Listen to your doctors. Take care of you & we’ll see you back in NZ in 2021."

Air New Zealand will introduce new fare flexibility following the postponement. It will mean Kiwis scheduled to fly to Auckland for the shows will be able to hold the value of their fare in credit for up to 12 months. Service fees will be waived, but any fare differences will apply. 

"Customers affected by the change in show dates can reach out to Air New Zealand via our social messaging channels or call our contact centre over the coming week," said Doug Grant, the airline's senior manager of customer care and communications.

Tickets for Sir Elton's upcoming Wednesday 19 February (previously Tuesday 18) concert will be valid for Friday 15 January 2021. Tickets for the Thursday 20 February show will be valid for Saturday 16 January 2021. Those unable to make the January shows can contact Ticketmaster to request a refund.

All Australian shows are scheduled to go ahead.